I Am Different

by Crystel Patterson, Briana Young (Illustrator)

Ekon, Nia, and Malachi are constantly reminded of their differences. Some people tease them, but their family and friends compliment their qualities that make them different. With the mixed reactions they receive, they each wonder who they should believe and come to an empowering resolution.

I Am Different is the second book of the "Inspired to be..." series. The "Inspired to be..." book series is a collection of children's books inspired by the culture, experiences, and dreams of Black people with the goal of inspiring all children. With this book, children are inspired to be confident in themselves and embrace their differences. Despite the mixed reactions they may receive, they are reminded to to focus on the positive and love themselves ALWAYS in ALL WAYS.

32 pages, Hardcover

Published May 10, 2021

About the author

Crystel is a mother to two beautiful boys, a wife, an active member of her community, a Technology Consultant, and an author. In January 2021, she self-published her first children’s book, which kicked off her book series entitled "Inspired to be...". The "Inspired to be..." book series seeks to inspire children through stories based on the culture, experiences, and dreams of Black people. Her stories are all inspired by real people so that children will be empowered to say, "If they can do that, then so can I". Crystel received her BS degree in Industrial Engineering and Operations Research at UC Berkeley, but her outlook and experience around inspiring literature for children comes from "being-a-parent university".

Reviews

[Tonja Drecker]

This is a book which empowers young readers to love themselves for who they are and not always listen to those who might tease them for things, which are different such as race, hair styles and such.

From the title and cover, it's clear what message this book holds at its core—empowerment to like ones self. While this is not a rare message in the kidlit sphere, I did appreciate how the author not only illustrates various daily situations, which readers can identify with, but also offers questions to each one, which act as prompts to open up to further discussion. This makes it an ideal read for group situations and for those who are already addressing the topic in a broader realm.

The book is written in rhyme and flows well. It presents three different kids as they face ridicule and teasing, but these then find support with their family and friends, who embrace them with love and warmth. It's wholesome and offers a very positive atmosphere. I, personally, would have liked to have seen a bit more diversity on this end (there are more kids with other aspects besides just these three which face the same problem) but this is just me, and this book does fulfill its purpose well and bring across the message clearly. I also found the glossary at the end a nice touch as it explains/defines various terminology used. But then, this isn't a difficult read and very age appropriate as it is.

This is a well done read, which does offer a very positive atmosphere to a sometimes tough situation. Readers will have no trouble understanding it and will be lead to broadening their own thoughts as well. I received a complimentary copy

[Monique]

Malachi, Nia, and Ekon note that they are different from others. Some rhythmic prose was used with descriptive adjectives. There is a glossary at the end of the book and definitions with descriptors at the bottom of the page the words are used. The examples used are difficult for the children to comprehend but in the end they all come to positive resolutions. Children can be rough when they notice differences in others. This is a great book to discuss these possibilities with your family.

SN: This author is a member of Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Inc. and part of Delta Authors on Tour.

[Vedika Agrawal]

Educational story of positive affirmations
Story of three kids, who could feel that they are different from the rest - in skin colour, hair, name, etc. Their family and friends complemented them but there are others who tease them. Due to the mixed reactions, they wonder who they should believe. They finally realised that they should not be bothered about those who tease them and believe in those who matter to them. The story encourages kids to stay positive and love themselves the way they are. Nicely written. Illustrations are good. Good job by the author.

[Shanita Allen]

Love yourself!!!

I love this book! Such a great message for all children. We are all unique. We come in different shapes, sizes, and shades. This book teaches children about accepting themselves, as well as others who may be different from them.

I also love how interactive the book is, with the glossary and questions on some of the pages. The positive affirmations at the end were the perfect touch!

[Kay B.]

Beautiful uplifting book for all to read

This is a beautiful uplifting book that both children and adults should read. It is written from the perspective of children who are “different.” Their skin color may not be like the rest. Their hair might be different. Or their name. The Whatever it is, this book shows that some people will tease and some will appreciate. In the end you should listen to your loved ones who appreciate you and love yourself.

[Cindy]

Great Book

I love this book because it addresses the reality that some people may try to make us feel bad about the same thing that can make us feel wonderful. It’s important for children to see their uniqueness as a positive and to learn to be with kids who appreciate them. I also appreciate the definitions and the page where we can create our own affirmations.

[Diego]

A beautiful book that i think all kids should read. This simple story reminds you that everyone is different, unique and needs to be loved for the person and the way he is.
The written language is easy and understandable by young readers, the illustrations are lovely and the message is very powerful, love it!

[Olaolu Ogunyemi]

I am different!

"They always see the best in me which is what I see when I look at me." This story hit home for me, and my children will relate. Growing up "different" is tough, but learning to declare positive affirmations over your own life is critical to building self-confidence and achieving success. Author, great job!

[Jo Seravat]

Beautiful message
This book is perfect for children to help them build healthy self-confidence, love and respect for themselves, and to practice kindness to that may be different. I also love that the book helps children to identify who to listen to and who to ignore. Excellent message and positive self Affirmation work!

[Holly Simmonds]

Great Book

This book has good repetition to help the message stick. A message which is always needed. I like how it includes definitions of different words for independent reading. The space to write your own positive affirmations about yourself is an inspired touch to encourage positive thoughts.

[Karen Pessoa]

Celebrate what makes you different

This is an inspiring book that teaches children to celebrate and love the things that makes them different from others. Celebrate, your creativity, passion, the skin you're in. The Illustrations are bright and engaging.

[Auxi]

Love yourself

Great book to teach children to love themselves and to accept their nature. We are all equals and no one is better just because their names or skin is 'normal'. Great book to have in school libraries and in the family home!!!

[Beverley Turnquest]

I would love to see all kids reading this together and understanding thAt everyone is different and that does not mean better or worst. Powerful message

[Laural Farabaugh]

Inspiring message for children

I really enjoyed the message in this story of loving yourself. It’s such an important concept for kids today. I would recommend this book.